### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **déō**, represented by `{{G1210}}`, is a primary verb meaning **to bind, knit, or tie**. It appears 48 times across 41 unique verses and is used in a wide variety of applications, both literal and figurative. Its meaning ranges from the physical act of tying an animal or restraining a prisoner to the spiritual authority to establish binding declarations.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1210}}` is frequently used to describe physical restraint. Jesus is **bound** by his captors before being delivered to Pilate ([[Matthew 27:2]], [[Mark 15:1]]). The apostle Paul describes himself as being **bound** for the sake of the gospel ([[Acts 21:13]], [[Colossians 4:3]]), and the prophet Agabus uses Paul's girdle to prophesy how the Jews in Jerusalem would **bind** him [[Acts 21:11]]. Figuratively, the term expresses legal or spiritual obligation. A woman is said to be **bound** by law to her husband [[Romans 7:2]], and a woman healed by Jesus was described as having been **bound** by Satan for eighteen years [[Luke 13:16]]. The word also carries a sense of spiritual authority, as when Jesus gives his disciples the power to **bind** and loose on earth and in heaven ([[Matthew 16:19]], [[Matthew 18:18]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of binding and restraint:
* `{{G1199}}` **desmón** (band, bond, chain): This noun refers to the instrument of binding. In [[2 Timothy 2:9]], Paul speaks of suffering trouble to the point of **bonds**, contrasting his own physical state with the freedom of God's word.
* `{{G3089}}` **lýō** (to loosen): As the direct antonym, this word is essential for understanding **déō**. It appears in the passages on spiritual authority, where what is **loosed** on earth will be **loosed** in heaven [[Matthew 18:18]].
* `{{G254}}` **hálysis** (fetter, chain): This term for a physical shackle is used to describe the man possessed by a demon whom no one could **bind**, not even with **chains** [[Mark 5:3]].
* `{{G1283}}` **diarpázō** (to seize asunder, i.e. plunder): This action is the consequence of binding the strong man. One cannot **spoil** a strong man's house without first having the power to **bind** him [[Mark 3:27]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1210}}` is significant, highlighting key spiritual principles.
* **Spiritual Authority:** The authority to **bind** and loose, given to the disciples, represents the Church's power to declare what is forbidden and permitted according to God's will. This is a delegation of heavenly authority to earthly representatives [[Matthew 16:19]].
* **Spiritual Warfare:** The concept is central to spiritual conflict. To overcome demonic power, one must first **bind** the "strong man" [[Matthew 12:29]]. This is seen on an eschatological scale when an angel will **bind** Satan for a thousand years [[Revelation 20:2]].
* **Bondage and Liberation:** Scripture contrasts different forms of bondage. While Paul is physically **bound** in chains, he declares that the word of God is not **bound** [[2 Timothy 2:9]]. Furthermore, a person can be **bound** by the law or by Satan, but can be **loosed** through Christ ([[Luke 13:16]], [[Romans 7:2]]).
### Summary
In summary, **déō** `{{G1210}}` is a powerful and multifaceted verb. It moves from simple, literal actions like tying a colt [[Luke 19:30]] or winding a body for burial [[John 19:40]] to profound spiritual realities. It underpins the biblical understanding of legal and covenantal obligations, the dynamics of spiritual warfare, and the delegation of divine authority. The word illustrates how a physical action can serve as a potent metaphor for the spiritual power to restrain evil and establish heavenly order on earth.
TRV